Discover Andros

The Capital of Hora

The Settlement of Hora is the capital of Andros located on the east side of the island. Built on a granite peninsula, the beautiful village has an irresistible combination of disparate elements of Cycladic minimalism, medieval charm and neoclassical nobility. Beautiful neoclassical mansions and elaborately decorated buildings show the wealth of the rich maritime tradition of the island. It is worth mentioning that Hora is considered to be one of the most impressive maritime villages of the Aegean with centuries of naval tradition. The gateway of the old city has been preserved and gives a beautiful aura to the area with medieval elements. The main square of the village is the Square of the Unknown Soldier with homonymous statue while the other square is located under a huge plane tree with charming coffee corners, bakeries and pastry shops. With a starting point of Hora, you can visit the medieval village of Messaria with its beautiful lion head springs of Dionysos, the charming village of Stenies and the beautiful village of Livadia for its lush greenery landscapes and its delicious grill meat taverns.

The Archaeological Site of Paleopolis

The Archaeological Site of Paleopolis is the ancient capital of Andros located in the village of Paleopoli. Excavations have brought to light the remnants of the market and the theatre of the ancient city along with a series of temples. Findings from the excavations are exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Paleopolis.  Remains of the sunken agora are found at the bottom of the sea located near the harbour of Batsi. Today, the verdant village is located on the foothills of mountain Petalo. The archaeological site of Paleopolis is located at the haven of the village and it is accessible from a sign posted path.

The Beach of Grias to Pidima

The Beach of Grias to Pidima is a pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the southeast side of the island. It is the most photographed beach of Andros owing to the narrow rock standing in the sea. According to the legend, the Turks assigned an old lady to ask for help in order to enter to the castle. During the night, the old lady opened the gates and the town of Andros was conquered. The old lady regretted her action and she committed suicide by falling from a high rock into the sea. The action of the old lady remained imprinted in the name of the castle (The Old Lady’s Castle) and the Old Lady’s Jump in the beach Tis Grias to Pidima.

The Castle of Pano Kastro

The Castle of Pano Kastro, else known as Tis Grias to Kastro and Faneromeni Castle, was the strongest city of the island. The castle was built from the Venetians on top of the slopes above the bay of Korthi. Inside the castle, one will have the opportunity to admire traces of houses, churches and cisterns along with the beautiful church of Panagia Faneromeni that offers magnificent views over the Aegean. According to the legend, the Turks assigned an old lady to ask for help in order to enter to the castle. During the night, the old lady opened the gates and the town of Andros was conquered. The old lady regretted her action and she committed suicide by falling from a high rock into the sea. The action of the old lady remained imprinted in the name of the castle (The Old Lady’s Castle) and the Old Lady’s Jump in the beach Tis Grias to Pidima. Nowadays, the castle is accessible through a sign posted trail that starts from the village of Kohilou.

The Villages of Paleokastro

The Villages of Paleokastro are considered to be the most beautiful villages of Andros, as they are renowned for the preservation of their customs and traditions. Kohilou is a beautiful village with with stone houses and cobbled paths where the neighbouring Castle of Faneromeni is waiting for you to discover it. Lardia is a small settlement with traditional stone houses, flowery gardens and climbing vines that offers impressive views of the bay of Korthi. Episkopio is one of the most beautiful villages of Korthi with traditional stone houses, windmills, lush vegetation and scenic springs. The surrounding areas are ideal for hiking lovers. Mesa Vouni is a small mountainous village with the therapeutic spring of Pertenia. It is worth visiting also the village of Lefkopodes for its Wine Festival that is held on August 23.

The Village of Stenies

The Village of Stenies is a one of the most beautiful villages of the Cyclades located on the east side of the island. The mountainous settlement has an authentic character, as it is a true specimen of traditional architecture with impressive stone houses and cobblestone alleys. The village is divided into the district of Ano Stenies, a charming area with impressive captain mansions, wall fountains and the charming square and the district o Kato Stenies home to the imposing tower house of Bisti and the deserted pasta factory of the family of Embirikos. One can also visit the beautiful beaches of Gialia and Piso Gialia.

The Archaeological Site of Ipsili is located in the village of Aprovatou. Archaeological excavations have brought to light remains of a geometric settlement along with its fortified acropolis and a sanctuary dedicated to Demeter and Persephone. If you decide to visit the site, keep in mind that archaeological research is still in progress.

The Archaeological Site of Paleopolis is the ancient capital of Andros located in the village of Paleopoli. Excavations have brought to light the remnants of the market and the theatre of the ancient city along with a series of temples. Findings from the excavations are exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Paleopolis.  Remains of the sunken agora are found at the bottom of the sea located near the harbour of Batsi. Today, the verdant village is located on the foothills of mountain Petalo. The archaeological site of Paleopolis is located at the haven of the village and it is accessible from a sign posted path.

The Archaeological Site of Zagora is an ancient settlement located on a steep plateau close to the area of Stavropeda. Archaeological excavations have brought to light the remnants of old houses and a sanctuary surrounded from the remains of the defensive city walls. Findings of the site are displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Andros. The site is accessible through a beautiful sign posted path starting from the area of Stavropeda.

The Castle of Kato Kastro was one of the most important castles of the Aegean built on the small peninsula of Hora. The castle is connected to Hora through an arched stone bridge and it used to offer natural protection over the surrounding areas. Kato Kastro was build from Venetian Marino Dandolo and it was destroyed from the bombardments from the Germans in 1943.

The Castle of Pano Kastro, else known as Tis Grias to Kastro and Faneromeni Castle, was the strongest city of the island. The castle was built from the Venetians on top of the slopes above the bay of Korthi. Inside the castle, one will have the opportunity to admire traces of houses, churches and cisterns along with the beautiful church of Panagia Faneromeni that offers magnificent views over the Aegean. According to the legend, the Turks assigned an old lady to ask for help in order to enter to the castle. During the night, the old lady opened the gates and the town of Andros was conquered. The old lady regretted her action and she committed suicide by falling from a high rock into the sea. The action of the old lady remained imprinted in the name of the castle (The Old Lady’s Castle) and the Old Lady’s Jump in the beach Tis Grias to Pidima. Nowadays, the castle is accessible through a sign posted trail that starts from the village of Kohilou.

The Tower of Agios Petros is one of the best preserved towers of the Cyclades located in a commanding position over the plain of Gavrio. The tower was probably built in the Hellenistic period between the 3^rd and 4^th centuries BC. The purpose of the tower was the control the surrounding sea passages for pirate invasions and enemy attacks.

The Church of Agios Ioannis Theologos is the oldest church of Andros located in Old Korthi. It is a byzantine church built around the 5^th century BC. Inside the church, one can admire a beautiful marble altar screen with murals of exceptional design.

The Church of Panagia Theoskepasti is the protector of Andros. Built on top of a cave in the quarter of Paraporti in Hora, the church is a three aisled basilica style with two bell towers. According to the legend, the local people saw a light moving from the sea towards the coast. Soon, they realized that it was the icon of Virgin Mary that went directly into the cave. However, the locals transferred the icon to the church of Agios Athanasios but the icon was found again into the cave. So, the local people decided to build a church above the cave. Due to limited financial resources, as the main source was the contribution of the locals, the roof was never finished until the second miracle happened and many tree logs were found on the roof of the church. To this extend, the church was named Theoskepasti, meaning roofed by God.  One will have the opportunity to admire the micaculous golden icon of Virgin Mary inside the church. The church celebrates in honour of the saint on the fifth Friday after Lent Monday.

The Church of Panagia Thalassini is the most beautiful chapel of the Andros located on a rock in the old harbour of Hora. According to tradition, Panagia Thalassini, namely the Virgin of the Sea, protects the seafarers along with Agios Nikolaos, the patron saint of sailors.

The Monastery of Agia Irini is a byzantine women monastery located one kilometres away from the village of Apikia. The monastery was built from two monks in 1780 until it was abandoned in 1843. However, the monastery was restored with the initiative of Mr Polemis. From the original construction, one will have the opportunity to admire the stone church with its marble temple and parts of the stone walls of the monastery. It is worth visiting the monastery for its impressive views over the Aegean Sea. The monastery celebrates on May 5 and July 29.

The Monastery of Panagia Tromarhiani is the old part of the Monastery of Papahrantou built on the slopes of the northwestern side of the island in the area of Korthi. The beautiful fortified monastery exhibits a beautiful carved temple from the 18^th century. The monastery is open only on Easter Monday. Here, one will admire panoramic views over the Aegean Sea.

The Monastery of Panagia Papahrantou is a fortified byzantine monastery of impressive architecture located close to the village of Falika.  Papahrantou monastery is considered to be the finest byzantine monastery of Andros. Lying on the mountain slopes of Gerakones, the monastery was built from Emperor Nikiforos Fokas in 963. Inside the monastery, one can admire the beautiful chapel of byzantine design with a wonderful dome and an interesting library. The monastery is located in a beautiful area with panoramic views and it is ideal for hiking lovers. The monastery celebrates in honour of the saint on July 27 and August 15.

The Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi, else known as the monastery of Agia, is one of the oldest monasteries in Cyclades located close to the harbour of Batsi. Although the date of construction is unknown, it is believed that the monastery was constructed from Empress Theodora in 842. However, the monastery was first mentioned in 1.400. In 1928, the monastery was converted into a convent. Today, the church of the monastery has a byzantine style with a beautiful carved iconostasis and wall paintings from the byzantine times. The monastery has a rich collection of prehistoric tools and an exhibition with utensils and vestments. The monastery celebrates on the first Friday after the Orthodox Easter Sunday.

The Archaeological Museum of Andros is located in Hora. The museum exhibits a wide collection of archaeological findings including findings from the ancient settlement of Zagora and a collection of sculptures and inscriptions from the Archaic and Byzantine periods found on excavations on the island.

The Archaeological Museum of Paleopolis is located in the ancient site. The museum exhibits artefacts including a rich collection of coins and statues, sculptures, inscriptions, vases and statuettes found on excavations on the archaeological site of Paleopolis.

The Folklore Art Museum of Andros is housed inside the premises of Paradise Hotel. The museum exhibits an interesting collection of folklore and Christian art objects and artefacts from the island of Andros.

The Goulandris Museum of Modern Art is located in Hora. It is one of the most important art museums in the Cyclades. The museum exhibits sculptures and paintings of Greek and foreign artists including artworks of Picasso, Matisse, Karagatsi, Nikolaidis and Tsarouhis.

The Maritime Museum of Andros is housed in a neoclassical mansion of Hora. The museum exhibits a rich collection of nautical instruments, shipping documents and models of old vessels of the rich maritime history of Andros.

The Library of Kairis is housed in a neoclassical mansion of Hora. Its exhibits include a vast variety of manuscripts and an archive of the shipping tradition of the island. During the summer, a series of art exhibitions are organized in the new exhibition area of the library.

The Cave of Foros is located in the village of Aladino. It is an impressive cave with rich stalactite and stalagmite formations. The cave extends over a surface of two hundred square meters and has five chambers. The cave is accessible through a sign posted trail from the settlement of Aladino.

The Mount Petalo is the main mountain of Andros located between the valleys of Ateni, Batsi, Messaria and Katakilos. The highest peak of Andros is Kouvara at an altitude of 994 meters on the south of Messaria valley and Gerakonas at an altitude of 720 meters between the valleys of Messaria and Korthi.

The Ravine of Pithara is located just off the village of Apikia.  A beautiful trail leads to ravine through verdant landscapes and plentiful water springs. Rare species of plants and wild flowers are found along the entire riverbed.

The Rivers of Andros are the main elements of the verdant vegetation of the island. The river of Arnipotamos flows into the bay of Lefka, the river of Megalos Potamos flows into the beach of Paraporti, the River of Dipotamata flows into the beach of Syneti and the River of Ahla flows into the bay of Ahla. These small rivers cross the island from the west to the east that flow all year round fed by the mountain peaks

The Spring of Dionysus is located close to the village of Menites. The area of the springs is a charming region with beautiful landscapes of fountains and old trees surrounded from verdant vegetation. The flowing waters of the springs are believed to have therapeutic properties. It is worth mentioning that the surrounding area is ideal for trekking lovers.

The Springs of Sariza is a beautiful fountain with running springs located in the centre of the village of Apikia. Apikia is the greenest village of the Cyclades. The flowing waters of the springs are believed to have therapeutic properties. The most intriguing part, however, is that the water of the springs is bottled and sold all over Greece.

The Valley of Dipotamata is an area of natural beauty located on the southeast coast of the island between the villages of Kohilou, Paleokastro and Syneti. Blessed with verdant vegetation and running springs, the area is crossed from an old cobbled path connecting Hora and the village of Korthi, an ideal route for lovers of nature and walking. Numerous old constructions are found in the region including chapels, threshing flours and windmills. Today, Dipotamata Valley has been declared as an ecological site from the European Union.

Ano Aprovatou is an agricultural village located on the west side of the island. The beautiful settlement is surrounded from olive groves and plane trees. Here, one will have the opportunity to admire panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Ano Aprovatou is known for its local cheeses. You can taste the local specialties in the sole local tavern of the village.

Apikia is a mountainous village located on the east side of the island. Lying on the foothills of Mount Petalo, the traditional settlement is rich in flora surrounded from cypress, olive and oak trees that is ideal for hiking lovers. The springs of Sariza are located in the centre of the village of Apikia. One can also visit the beautiful waterfalls of Pithara. Before entering the village, you will see a sign leading to the waterfalls of Pithara on your left side. Follow the short trail to discover a beautiful landscape with waterfalls. Close to the village, one can also visit the monastery of Agios Nikolaos for the impressive temple and the monastery of Agia Marina for the priceless ecclesiastical collection. The taverns of Apikia are renowned for their traditional specialties.

Batsi is a seaside village located on the west side of the island. Although the area is the most cosmopolitan area of the island, it has managed to keep a traditional charm. The charming village has red tiled coloured houses that spread amphitheatrically around the harbour. The surrounding area has a series of beautiful sandy beaches and hidden coves. One should also visit the impressive monastery of Zoodohos Pigi for the beautiful carved iconostasis.

Gavrio is the main harbour of Andros located on the western side of the island. The settlement is the best starting point for your exploration of the northern part of Andros. A series of sandy beaches and the Monastery of Zoodohos Pigi can be accessed from the harbour of Gavrio.

Hora is the capital of Andros located on the east side of the island. Built on a granite peninsula, the beautiful village has an irresistible combination of disparate elements of Cycladic minimalism, medieval charm and neoclassical nobility. Beautiful neoclassical mansions and elaborately decorated buildings show the wealth of the rich maritime tradition of the island. It is worth mentioning that Hora is considered to be one of the most impressive maritime villages of the Aegean with centuries of naval tradition. The gateway of the old city has been preserved and gives a beautiful aura to the area with medieval elements. The main square of the village is the Square of the Unknown Soldier with homonymous statue while the other square is located under a huge plane tree with charming coffee corners, bakeries and pastry shops. With a starting point of Hora, you can visit the medieval village of Messaria with its beautiful lion head springs of Dionysos, the charming village of Stenies and the beautiful village of Livadia for its lush greenery landscapes and its delicious grill meat taverns.

Menites is a verdant mountainous village located on the central part of the island. It is one of the most beautiful villages of Andros. Characterized as a protected traditional settlement, the beautiful village has an authentic character with whitewashed houses and winding alleys renowned for its beautiful springs. The surrounding areas of the village are ideal for trekking lovers. One can also visit the neighbouring verdant village of Aladino and the impressive cave of Foros, an ideal of speleology lovers.

Messaria is a medieval village located on the central part of the island. Blessed with imposing tower houses, byzantine churches and verdant vegetation, the beautiful settlement is an ideal place for an excursion from Hora. The village supplies the capital of the island with its products from the fertile farms. One can visit the beautiful tower house of Lorenzos Kairis and the beautiful Byzantine church of Taxiarhis.

Ormos is a seaside village located on the southern side of the island. The area is an open bay cove surrounded from plain valleys and beautiful sandy beaches ideal for windsurfing lovers. The atmospheric town is ideal for relaxation.  One can explore the verdant landscapes of Dipotamata valley, as the area is crossed from an old cobbled path connecting Hora and the village of Korthi, an ideal route for lovers of nature and walking. It is also worth visiting the charming village of Kapparia with its pigeon houses and watermills.

Paleopoli is the old capital of Andros with a significant archaeological interest located on the west side of the island. The archaeological site of Paleopolis is located in the neighbourhood of Kato Paleopoli while the archaeological collection of Paleopoli is located in the neighbourhood of Ano Paleopoli. A beautiful hiking trail starts from the church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos leading to a waterfall flowing from the slopes of the mountain.

Remata is a charming village with lush greenery of cypress, olive and plane trees located on the central part of the island. The village is crossed from the river of Arnipotamos that flows into the bay of Lefka, a place of exceptional natural beauty ideal for bird watching and nature lovers. One can also visit the neighbouring verdant village of Arni located in one of the highest spots of Andros. The surrounding areas of the village are ideal for hiking lovers and one can also discover the verdant area of Remata and the beautiful restored Olive Oil Mill of Lembesis surrounded from olive and plane trees.

Stenies is a one of the most beautiful villages of the Cyclades located on the east side of the island. The mountainous settlement has an authentic character, as it is a true specimen of traditional architecture with impressive stone houses and cobblestone alleys. The village is divided into the district of Ano Stenies, a charming area with impressive captain mansions, wall fountains and the charming square and the district o Kato Stenies home to the imposing tower house of Bisti and the deserted pasta factory of the family of Embirikos. One can also visit the beautiful beaches of Gialia and Piso Gialia.

The Villages of Paleokastro are considered to be the most beautiful villages of Andros, as they are renowned for the preservation of their customs and traditions. Kohilou is a beautiful village with stone houses and cobbled paths where the neighbouring Castle of Faneromeni is waiting for you to discover it. Lardia is a small settlement with traditional stone houses, flowery gardens and climbing vines that offers impressive views of the bay of Korthi. Episkopio is one of the most beautiful villages of Korthi with traditional stone houses, windmills, lush vegetation and scenic springs. The surrounding areas are ideal for hiking lovers. Mesa Vouni is a small mountainous village with the therapeutic spring of Pertenia. It is worth visiting also the village of Lefkopodes for its Wine Festival that is held on August 23.

Spot: Beach Grias Pidima, Southeast Andros

Spot: Castle of Pano Kastro, South Andros

Spot: Chapel of Agia Thalassini, East Andros

Spot: Chapel of Agia Fotini, East Andros

Spot: Monastery of Papahrantou, Central Andros

Boat Trip: The Island of Syros is an irresistible combination of disparate elements of Cycladic minimalism, medieval charm and neoclassical romanticism blend in the heart of the Cyclades. The beautiful duchess with the two worlds and the mysterious atmosphere is unfolding in front of your eyes in order to challenge you to travel with her. Syros would definitely be characterized as the noble island as evident from her impressive architecture, her cultural wealth and the perfect coexistence of two Christian denominations. Despite the proud history of Syros, the island has adopted an anonymity preserving the genuineness of her heritage. . Even if you have visited all the islands of the Aegean, Hermoupolis will definitely impress you, as the splendors of hers are not concealed. Behind every corner of the colorful city, another mysterious surprise is hiding with flowery balconies, colorful doors and hidden stairways.

Boat Trip: The Island of Tinos is recognized as the largest pilgrimage center in the country. However, the noble island of Tinos can also be characterized as an unexplored island of mysterious beauties in terms of the verdant nature, the authentic villages, the ancient heritage, the folklore and the rich culinary traditions of her land. Indeed the endless sandy beaches and the turquoise waters of Tinos act as a magnet for travellers, however the gems of the island are the authentic villages. Mostly mountainous, forgotten in another era but with surprisingly verdant landscapes that do not resemble in any way the barren sceneries of the Cyclades. The fascination of Tinos lies in the hinterland and the nature, the preserved villages with the stone cells and the dovecotes, the ancient rural streets that lead in unexpected places. The mystery of the island lies in the art of painters and sculptors while the charm lies in the taste of the excellent products of Tinos. Above all, the magic of Tinos lies in the faith of the people, the pilgrims and the prayers. Except from the inexhaustible beauty of the island, Tinos is a place of spirit and enlightenment. With a long tradition in architecture, folklore art and sculpture, Tinos has managed to combine art, natural beauty and tradition in a very special way that will touch you spiritually!

Bird Watching: Andros has the perfect environment for thousands native and migratory birds. The beach of Ahla is a wildlife refuge of a rich variety of migratory birds.

Diving: The varied coastline of Andros offers numerous exciting explorations for diving enthusiasts. Interesting shipwrecks and colourful reefs are some of the most interesting diving spots. Also, the beach of Paleopoli is an ideal diving site where you can discover the ancient submerged breakwater. One will find a diving center at the bay of Kypri in Gavrio.

Hiking: Andros hosts numerous paths ideal for lovers of hiking. The island has an exceptional network of old cobblestone trails that run through the entire island. These trails connect villages, cross water springs and ravines and lead to monasteries and churches. (1) One of the most beautiful routes is the trail starting from the region of Stavropeda leading to the ancient settlement of Zagora. (2) Another beautiful route is the route starting from the region of Revmata between the villages of Vourkoti and Arni, a natural beauty paradise surrounded from verdant vegetation. (3) One can also follow the paths in the natural springs of Pithara, an ideal route for nature lovers. (4) It is also worth following the route starting from the village of Kohilou that leads to the Castle of Pano Kastro that offers panoramic views of the Aegean. Discover more information from the Municipality of Andros that created a special brochure for the hiking trails of the island. Also, Trekking Andros organizes numerous hiking excursions.

Mountain Biking: The rich natural diversity of Andros is highly suitable for mountain and road biking. Exciting trails from rural roads to specially designed cycling routes are available in various parts of the island. The northern part of Andros boasts numerous paths of extreme wild beauty for mountain biking. One of the most beautiful routes starts from the village of Hora that leads to the beach of Vori. Trekking Andros organizes numerous mountain biking excursions.

Off Road: Lovers of off road driving can follow the dirt roads leading to the mountains of Andros in order to explore the mysterious beauties of the island. Make sure you always check the maps of the destination before you get into your car! The northern part of Andros boasts numerous paths of extreme wild beauty for off road driving.

Windsurfing: Andros is known for its ideal conditions for lovers of windsurfing, as the island gets really windy especially in the summer. The beach of Ormos Korthi offers windsurfing facilities and it is ideal for practising windsurfing.

Ahla is a white sandy beach with emerald waters located on the eastern side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Andros and it is accessible either by jeep or motorbike. A small river ends close to the beach that is an important biotope for migratory birds. The beach has no amenities.

Agios Petros is a long sandy beach with crystalline waters located on the northwest side of the island.  The beach is well organised with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and taverns.

Apothikes is a scenic sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the southwest side of the island. It is a secluded cove ideal for those looking for tranquillity and isolation.

Ateni is a secluded sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the northeast side of the island. The beach is ideal for spearfishing. Ateni is located close to the beautiful beach of Lefka.

Chrissi Ammos is a long golden sandy beach with blue waters located in the northwest side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Andros. The beach it is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars and water sport facilities.

Fellos is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the northwest side of the island. The beach offers panoramic views and it is an ideal place for relaxation. It has some seaside taverns and it is ideal for spearfishing.

Halkolimnionas is a white sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the eastern side of the island. It is a secluded beach and it is ideal for those looking for tranquillity.

Grias to Pidima is a pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the southeast side of the island. It is the most photographed beach of Andros owing to the narrow rock standing in the sea. According to the legend, the Turks assigned an old lady to ask for help in order to enter to the castle. During the night, the old lady opened the gates and the town of Andros was conquered. The old lady regretted her action and she committed suicide by falling from a high rock into the sea. The action of the old lady remained imprinted in the name of the castle (The Old Lady’s Castle) and the Old Lady’s Jump in the beach Tis Grias to Pidima.

Ormos is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. It is one the most popular beaches of Andros with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas and water sport facilities. The beach is also ideal for windsurfing lovers.

Syneti is a beach of wild beauty with turquoise waters and huge rocks located on the southeast side of the island. The beach is a favourite spot for nature lovers.

Plaka is a sandy and pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the southwest side of the island. It is a secluded beach and it is ideal for those looking for tranquillity.

Piso Limnionas is a sandy beach with crystal clear waters located on the northwest side of the island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquillity and isolation.

Piso Gialia is a white sandy cove with turquoise waters located on the eastern side of the island. The beach is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas and taverns.

Pyrgos is a sandy cove with blue waters and rocky formations located on the northwest side of the island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquillity.

Vitali is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the northeast side of the island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquillity. There is a tavern at the beach.

Zorgos is a sandy beach with emerald and turquoise waters located on the north side of the island. It is an ideal beach to enjoy calmness and there is a small tavern.

Coffee Corners

Agora Café: Coffee, Hora

Krisilias: Bakery, Hora

Laskaris Pastry Shop: Pastries, Hora

Loukoubomb: Coffee & Pastries, Batsi

Skalakia: Ice Cream, Hora

Thiriotrofio: Coffee, Gavrio

Gastronomic Delights

Ammos: Seafood, Batsi

Asimolefka: Ouzo and Meze, Ano Ipsilou

Balkoni tou Egeou: Greek Cuisine, Ano Aprovato

Barbarola: Greek Cuisine, Piso Gialia

Delfinia: Greek Cuisine, Batsi

Enalion: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Endochora: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Gregos: Greek Cuisine, Katakilos

Kandouni: Greek Cuisine, Batsi

La Famiglia: Italian Cuisine, Korthi

Menou me nou: Greek Cuisine, Hora

O Nonas: Seafood, Hora

O Kossis: Greek Cuisine, Ano Fellos

Platanos: Ouzo and Meze, Hora

Stamatis: Seafood, Batsi

Terpsiholi tou Pertesi: Greek Cuisine, Strapouries

Themelos: Ouzo and Meze, Batsi

Cocktails Inspirations

Capriccio: Cocktails and Drinks, Batsi

Centro Cafe: Cocktails and Drinks, Korthi

Golden Beach Beach Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Chrissi Ammos beach

Piso Gialia Beach Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Piso Gialia beach

Swell: Cocktails and Drinks, Niborio Beach

The local products of the island include the bottled water Sariza coming from the Sariza water springs in Apikia village, the local honey, the local wine, and the local cheese of kopanisti.

The local specialties of the island include fourtalia, a dish made of traditional omelette with cheese, potato and sausage, labriatis, an Easter traditional dish made of marinated stuffed goat, nougatines, a marzipan type sweet, kaltsounia, a sweet made with honey, walnuts and pine nuts, and patsitsakia, a sweet of roasted almonds.

Easter in Andros is celebrated with great solemnity. From the holy liturgies at churches and monasteries during the Holy Week, the procession of the Epitaph on the cobblestone alleys of Hora on Holy Friday, to the Resurrection on Holy Saturday and the festive atmosphere of Sunday of Easter, it is certain that Andros is an ideal Easter destination. Some of the most notable celebrations include the hymn of Kassiani in the Assumption church in Hora that take place on Holy Tuesday, the epitaphs of the three parishes that arrive in Kairi Square on the afternoon of Holy Friday, the fireworks of the Resurrection on Holy Saturday evening, as well as the gathering at the Missing Sailor’s Square in Hora on Sunday morning, at the Second Resurrection, where people crack red eggs, eat “lazarakia” and observe the explosions of the old cannons from the Venetian castle. It is also well worth a visit at Stenies village on Sunday afternoon, where the captains of the village throw fireworks and the two parishes of the village parade while carrying the holy pictures of the Resurrection.

Every summer, the Ploes Cultural Festival takes place in Hora. The festival hosts numerous artistic and cultural special events.

Every summer, the International Windsurfing Race takes place in the bay of Korthi.

Every summer, the Gavriotika Festival takes place in Andros. The festival hostss a series of cultural events including folklore exhibitions and music performances with local wine and fresh soup being served to the visitors.

Every summer, music concerts take place at the football stadium close to the beach of Paraporti.

Every August, the Korthiana Festival takes place in the village of Korthi hosting a series cultural and folklore festivities.

Every August, a traditional celebration takes place in the village of Agios Petros.

Every August, the International Sailing Competition takes place in Andros.

Mythology
According to mythology, the king of Delos, Anios had three daughters and tow sons whose names were given to the islands of Andros and Mykonos. However, Andros was also called Hydroussa referring to its water resources and Lassia referring to its verdant landscapes. The creation of the Cyclades is attributed to God Poseidon. It is said that the god of the sea transformed the Cyclades nymphs into islands, when they angered him.

History
Archaeological findings show that Andros has been inhabited from the Carians, Cretans, Pelasgians and Phoenicians since the Mycenaean period. Andros flourished at the second half of the 7^th century while it participated with the Halkideans to the colonization of Halkidiki and the coastal regions of Macedonia. To this extend, the island became an independent city-state belonging to the Amphictyony of Delos in the 6^th century BC. During the Classical times, the old capital of Andros used to be Paleopolis, a city that flourished as shown from the silver and bronze coins of the Andriot State as well as the sunken remains of an ancient agora. Andros fell under the Persian domination until the Battle of Salamina followed by the dominance of Athens where the Andriots were forced to send men to the Peloponnesian War. After the war, the island stayed under the sovereignty of Sparta and was later liberated from the Athenians. However, Andros fell under the domination of the Macedonians resulting into important changes in the customs and the political system. The fate of Andros was the same with the other islands of the Aegean, consecutively falling under the domination of the Romans, the Venetians and the Ottomans. Just before the Greek War of Independence, 37 Andriots were members of the Society of Friends,a secret society founded for the resistance of the country against the Ottomans. Indeed, Theofilos Kairis, a member of the Society of Friends officially proclaimed the War of Independence on 10^th of May 1821, who raised the flag of Revolution in Hora of Andros. Following the war, Andros experienced a period of great economic prosperity in shipping and was the second port of Greece. However, Andros suffered from great losses in terms of human lives and ships during the Second World War and the Italian and German occupation. Andros flourished and developed it a great naval power whilst the local seafarers gave the name of Little England to Andros wanting to compare the naval wealth of the island with England.  All these influences have left their mark on the island.

By Boat (45 Nautical Miles): Andros is accessible by boat from the harbor of Rafina. The journey usually lasts two hours. Andros is also connected with the islands of Tinos, Syros, Kea, Kythnos and Serifos amongst others. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !